Polk County Dairy Judging Coach & Volunteer

Karrie Melin Swenson has been a valuable Polk County 4-H volunteer for 45 years. She started her 4-H journey as a member at age nine. After her years as a member, her love of the dairy project led her to be a dairy judging coach for the past 45 years. She has coached hundreds of 4-H youth during this time, encouraging their passion for the dairy industry. Karrie has also served as a general leader and continues to serve as a project leader for her local 4-H club.

In addition to the work Karrie does for the dairy judging teams and the dairy project, she also serves on the Polk County Fair Board. She has been a member for the past 34 years and serves as a vice-president.

When asked what she is most proud of during her board tenure, Karrie mentioned the purchase of adjacent land to expand the fairgrounds. She served on the grant writing and fundraising committee that was able to secure grants and donated monies to completely fund the building of a new milk house, milking facility and wash rack. Karrie’s dedication to Polk County fair, the exhibitors, volunteers, and fair attendees is unmatched.

Karrie states “the opportunities and experiences that she had as a 4-H member helped shape her life. 4-H provides youth with a world of opportunity. The life skills that are learned exploring different projects, working together as a group or a team, and stepping out of your comfort zone are all important opportunities that are available through 4-H.”